In a historic move aimed at deepening cultural ties and fostering intercultural exchange, the Lagos State Government has presented a Certificate of Occupancy (C of O) to the United Arab Emirates (UAE) for the establishment of a cultural centre in Lagos.
This significant gesture which was held at the Consulate Office of the UAE in Victoria Island underscores the commitment of the state government to promote cultural diplomacy, celebrate diversity, and strengthen bilateral relations between the two regions.
The Special Adviser to the Governor on SDGs, Dr. Oreoluwa Finnih, who led the state’s delegation, explained that the partnership underscores the commitment of both Lagos and the UAE to harness the power of education and cultural exchange in fostering global citizenship and sustainable development.
While presenting the Certificate of Occupancy (C of O) to the Consular General, the Special Adviser explained that the donation marks a significant milestone in the establishment of a cultural hub that will serve as a beacon of cultural exchange and dialogue between the two regions.
Her words, “By harnessing the collective expertise and cultural richness of the two cities, this partnership holds the promise of creating a more interconnected and inclusive world, where cultural heritage is celebrated, educational opportunities are accessible to all, and meaningful exchanges shape the future of global citizenship”.
Expressing enthusiasm about the collaboration, the Special Adviser pointed out that the cross-border collaboration has the potential to enrich the cultural fabric and educational landscape of the state, submitting that the diverse cultural assets and educational resources of Lagos and the UAE will provide invaluable learning opportunities for individuals of all ages.
“Lagos is a melting pot of cultures, and we are thrilled to collaborate with the United Arab Emirates in celebrating and preserving our rich cultural heritage. The establishment of this edifice will not only deepen our cultural ties but also create new opportunities for educational and socio-economic growth”, she added.
The partnership, according to her, marks a significant milestone in the present administration’s ongoing efforts to promote cultural diplomacy and educational excellence by leveraging the shared values and diverse heritage of the two economically advanced cities.
Dr. Finnih further confirmed that the collaboration will encompass a wide range of initiatives designed to promote cross-cultural understanding, facilitate knowledge sharing, and empower citizens to become global citizens.
Receiving the C of O document, the Consul General, UAE, Dr. Abdulla Al-Mandoos appreciated Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu’s administration for the kind gesture, pledging to strengthen the bond between the UAE and the state government through cultural and educational exchange.
The Consul-General emphasised the importance of cross-cultural collaboration, stating that the partnership represents a significant milestone in international cooperation.
He said, “With a shared commitment to excellence and mutual respect, Lagos and the UAE are poised to embark on a transformative journey that will leave a lasting legacy for generations to come. These joint cultural and educational initiatives will seek to deepen our bilateral ties and cultivate